You must have JavaScript enabled in your browser settings to use the smartraveller.gov.au web site

JavaScript allows many of the interactive and dynamic features of this website to operate correctly and efficiently.

Most browsers come with JavaScript already enabled, however if for some reason JavaScript is disabled in your browser you
can enable it by changing your browser settings.
For instructions on how to do this, visit your browser's website and
search for the term "enable JavaScript".

Mozambique

Mozambique

Summary

Exercise a high degree of caution in Mozambique because of high levels of serious crime. Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks. Avoid travelling at night.

Reconsider your need to travel to Cabo Delgado Province due to clashes between armed groups, security forces and local residents. On 8 June 2018 the US Government warned its citizens of possible imminent attacks on government and commercial centres in the district headquarters of Palma, Cabo Delgado Province. Take particular care around government offices and retail locations, including markets, in Palma.

In May 2018, villagers were killed in the area of Olumbi in Palma, Cabo Delgado Province. Be aware of an increased security presence in the region, including road blocks. Check local and social media for updates before you travel to the area, remain vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities. See Safety and security.

Reconsider your need to travel by road along the EN1 road between Save River and Caia in Sofala Province, and the EN6 road between Beira in Sofala Province and Chimoio in Manica Province, due to armed attacks on vehicles.

In Sofala Province, banditry and politically-motivated violence are threats, particularly in remote areas around the Gorongosa hills, Muxungue, Chibabava, Maringue, Macossa and Canxixi. See Safety and security.

Kidnapping and other violent criminal activity is increasing in Maputo and Beira. Avoid walking at night, even in well-known tourist areas. Avoid isolated beaches. See Safety and security.

Demonstrations can occur with little warning. Avoid all demonstrations and protests as they can become violent. See Safety and security.

Entry and exit

Visas

You'll need a visa to enter Mozambique.

Visas-on-arrival are available if certain conditions are met but some travellers have faced difficulties getting a visa-on-arrival.

Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) can change at short notice. Contact an High Commission of Mozambique to apply for a visa before you travel or for up-to-date information on entry and exit conditions.

If you travel to or from Mozambique through South Africa (including transiting), you'll need to satisfy certain requirements. Specific documentation requirements apply to all children travelling to South Africa. Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate requirements apply to all travellers. South Africa does not accept provisional travel documents. Other conditions may apply. More information: South Africa.

Passport

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after the date you intend to return to Australia.

Your passport is a valuable document and attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. Always keep it in a safe place.

Money

The local currency is Mozambique Metical (MZN). The export or import of MZN is prohibited.

You can exchange US Dollars and South African Rand for MZN in all urban centres across Mozambique. Travellers' cheques in US Dollars or Euros are accepted at major banks in Maputo but can only be changed for MZN. Travellers' cheques are very difficult to change in other areas of Mozambique and a high rate of commission is charged where the facility does exist.

There are several ATMs in Maputo that accept international credit cards. Credit cards are widely accepted. Keep your credit card in sight at all times, including during transactions. Contact your bank to make sure your cards will work in Mozambique.

Safety and security

On 8 June 2018 the US Government warned its citizens of possible imminent attacks on government and commercial centres in the district headquarters of Palma, Cabo Delgado Province. Take particular care around government offices and retail locations, including markets, in Palma. Check local and social media for updates before you travel to the area, remain vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities.

Civil unrest and political tension

Political tensions exist. In the past, political tensions have led to armed clashes.

Prior to national elections in October 2014, there were armed clashes between government security forces and the Renamo opposition party.

During 2016, attacks on vehicles on the EN1 road between the Save River and Muxungue and Gorongosa to Caia led to fatalities. Mozambican police convoys were providing timed escorts for traffic in these areas.

In May 2018, villagers were killed in the area of Olumbi in Palma, Cabo Delgado Province. Be aware of an increased security presence in the region, including road blocks. Check local and social media for updates before you travel to the area, remain vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities.

A ceasefire has held since December 2016 but conflict could return at short notice.

Demonstrations can occur with little warning. Demonstrations and other public gatherings can turn violent.

Reconsider your need to travel along the EN1 road between Save River and Caia in Sofala Province, and the EN6 road between Beira in Sofala Province and Chimoio in Manica Province, due to armed attacks on vehicles.

Local travel

Landmines

All known minefields in Mozambique have been cleared but risks could remain. Take care when travelling away from the main road networks in remote and rural areas, especially in the central and southern provinces. Stick to well-travelled roads.

Road travel

You are six times more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Mozambique than in Australia. Driving hazards include poor road conditions, local driving practices and inadequate lighting. It is especially dangerous to drive after dark in rural areas. Roads are often shared with pedestrians and livestock, especially in rural areas.

During the rainy season (November to April) travel by four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for most road travel outside Maputo. Many roads in the Gaza and Inhambane provinces and parts of Sofala, Zambezia and Tete provinces, including the North-South road, are subject to flooding and damage in the rainy season.

There have been reports of pedestrians deliberately causing accidents in order to extort money from foreign drivers.

Checkpoints are common throughout Mozambique. There have been reports of police soliciting bribes from tourists.

Check you have adequate insurance cover before driving.

Familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and practices before driving.

Get up-to-date local advice on road conditions before travel outside major centres.

Drive defensively.

Avoid travel at night – see Safety and security.

Be alert to possible hazards, especially if you need to travel at night.

Driver's licence

You can drive in Mozambique with a valid Australian driver's licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP). You must get your IDP before departing Australia.

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorcycle, quad bike or similar vehicle. Your policy may not cover you for accidents that occur while using these vehicles. Wear, and ensure your passenger wears, a correctly fastened and approved helmet.

Taxis

Use only registered taxis and limousines from reputable providers, preferably those arranged through your hotel.

Public transport

Public transport can be hazardous due to reliability and security issues. Use instead a car and driver from a reputable provider.

Boat travel

Piracy is a threat in the Indian Ocean. Somali pirates have been using mother ships to attack shipping vessels up to 1,000 nautical miles from the coast of Somalia. All forms of shipping are attractive targets for Somali pirates, including commercial vessels, pleasure craft and luxury cruise liners.

Air travel

The Australian Government does not provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths. See instead the Aviation Safety Network website for information on aviation safety in Mozambique.

Laws

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

If you are arrested or detained, authorities in Mozambique may not automatically notify the Australian Government. As soon as possible, request police or prison officials to notify the Australian High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa.

Drug laws

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include prison sentences. More information: Drugs

Other laws

By law, you must you carry identification at all times (passport, identity documents or notarised copies).

Activities that are illegal in Mozambique include:

photographing government buildings, other infrastructure or officials without permission from the Ministry of Information

purchasing or trading in endangered wildlife products, such as ivory and rhino horn, without a licence – more information: Wildlife trade

exporting or importing the local currency (Meticais).

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws apply overseas. If you commit these offences, you may be prosecuted in Australia. Laws include those relating to:

Dual nationals

Local customs

Health

Travel insurance

Take out comprehensive travel insurance before you depart to cover overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. Make sure your policy includes adequate coverage for any pre-existing conditions.

Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. The Australian Government will not pay for your medical expenses overseas or medical evacuation costs. This can be very expensive and cost you many thousands of dollars upfront.

Confirm:

what circumstances and activities are and are not covered under your policy

Medication

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Before you leave Australia, check if your medication is legal in each country you're travelling to and find out if any quantity restrictions or certification requirements apply. Consult your doctor about alternatives well in advance of travel

Take enough legal prescription medicine with you to last for the duration of your stay so you remain in good health. Carry copies of your prescription and a dated letter from your doctor stating what the medicine is, how much you'll take and that it's for personal use only.

contact friends and family in Australia with regular updates about your welfare and whereabouts.

Cyclones and severe weather

The rainy season is November to April. Flooding occurs on low ground around rivers and coastal areas. Flash floods and mudslides can make some roads impassable.

Cyclones may occur along the coastal areas of Mozambique. The direction and strength of cyclones can change with little warning.

If there is a cyclone or severe storm, you may not be able to leave the area: flights in and out of affected areas could be delayed or suspended, and available flights may fill quickly. Access to sea ports could also be affected. Roads and bridges may collapse or be blocked. Power, communication systems and other essential services could be affected. In some areas, adequate shelter from a cyclone may not be available for all those who stay.

If a cyclone is approaching, follow the advice for all natural disasters above and:

Earthquakes

Mozambique experiences earthquakes. Familiarise yourself with earthquake safety measures for each place you stay and visit, including hotels, public and private buildings. More information: Earthquakes

Where to get help

Depending on what you need, your best option may be to contact your family, friends, airline, travel agent, tour operator, employer or travel insurer. Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Emergency phone numbers

There is no national emergency number in Mozambique.

Fire: phone 198

Medical emergency: phone 117 or go to the nearest hospital

Police: phone 119 or visit the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Tourism products and services

For complaints relating to tourism services or products, contact your service provider directly.

Australian Government

Australia has a Consulate in Mozambique, headed by an Honorary Consul. The Consulate can provide limited consular and passport assistance. You can get full consular and passport assistance from the Australian High Commission, in Pretoria, South Africa.